The performance parameters achieved so far exceed expectations at this stage. In addition to significantly optimized energy usage, the crystallization furnace provides a solid basis for future, modular extensions. The first crystallization furnaces are set to be supplied to customers in the first half of 2010, which is an ideal time for market launch as the markets are expected to recover in 2010 following the general economic downturn in the wake of the global financial crisis. centrotherm SiTec is currently already experiencing constantly growing demand for crystallization and wafer solutions as both individual equipment and complete production facilities. Together with the crystallization furnace, centrotherm SiTec also provides facility design, engineering services, p rocess technology for crystallization and the key process equipment required for this. This comprehensive portfolio once again demonstrates the centrotherm photovoltaics Group’s high level of performance in providing technology, process know-how and key equipment as a one-stop-shop solution.
In the crystallization furnace, polysilicon particles are initially smelted in a quartz crucible at over 1450°C. The smelted silicon is then turned into multi-crystalline ingots based on the principle of directional solidification. Bars and wafers, which are required to manufacture solar cells and solar modules, can then be sawn from these crystallized silicon blocks. The crystallization furnace contains up to 450 kg of polysilicon, and has an optimized hot zone for a quartz crucible of 880mm x 880mm x 420 mm, which allows for an efficient silicon smelting process and optimized crystallization process management.
“With our innovative development work, we are continuously expanding the centrotherm photovoltaics Group’s range of products in the silicon area,” explained Dr. Albrecht Mozer, managing director of centrotherm SiTec. “The crystallization furnace represents a further milestone of our in-house product development. It confirms the decision to bundle the centrotherm photovoltaics Group’s silicon expertise under the roof of centrotherm SiTec.”
